Will I have to pay for treatment?

Many countries expect patients to contribute towards the cost of their treatment. The EHIC allows you to access healthcare from state providers on the same basis as a resident of the country you’re visiting. This means at a reduced cost or sometimes free of charge.

Even with an EHIC, you may have to pay towards your treatment, depending on the rules of the country you’re visiting. You may be able to claim the money back – always try to apply for a refund before you return home. Find out how to do this in the country-by-country guide for the EHIC.

Do I still need travel insurance?

Yes. Make sure you have valid travel insurance for your trip. The EHIC will not cover costs such as mountain rescue in ski resorts, being flown back to the UK, or lost or stolen property.

Renewing your EHIC

You can renew your EHIC up to six months before the expiry date. The quickest way to renew it is online. You can also renew it by phone or post, but this takes longer.